The local paper in Augusta published a short story about the crazy long line that formed to get into the merchandise center at Augusta National shortly after the gates opened on Saturday. That customers would immediately flock to the gift shop is not that surprising given it was the first day it was open to the public, and well, buying Masters swag is its own tradition unlike any other.
What might be surprising, however, is the item that the story noted was of highest demand. It’s not a hat or a polo shirt or a pin flag. It was a Masters-themed patron gnome.
When the oddly cute offering, that our Alex Myers made mention of earlier this week, was first introduced in 2016, it sold out quickly. In subsequent years a new version has been offered with the character dressed in different outfits, and each year they have flown off the shelves. Last year, the gnomes were reportedly out of stock on Monday of Masters week.
Here’s a look at this year’s edition:
“I keep seeing them on social media, so I have to get one,” Katie Hershey, at Augusta National for the first time, told the paper. “I’m so excited. I can’t wait to show everybody back home.”
The gnome stands just over a foot tall. There’s also a smaller version wearing Augusta’s traditional caddie outfit.
Suffice it to say, the gnome is a bit of an acquired taste.
“The first time I saw him, I was like, ‘Is that it?’” Hershey said. “But he’s growing on me. I think they’re amazing.”
The full-size gnomes retail for $49.50, the smaller versions for $29.50, but to judge their true value you might want to hop on eBay and see just what these guys are going for on the open market. As of Sunday morning, there were 113 listings, mostly of the 2023 model, with bidding prices ranging from $100 to upwards of $300. A "vintage" 2019 edition was going for $480. And a set of 2019, 2020 and 2021 offerings were set at $1,000 or best offer.
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